The UN World Food Program (WFP) and the UN Environment Program (UNEP) signed an agreement in Nairobi on Friday to tackle the devastating impacts of the climate crisis, environmental degradation and biodiversity and ecosystem loss on the food and water security of millions of people around the world.
The agreement advances collaboration on climate change adaptation, nature-friendly food systems, water resource management and ecosystems restoration.
It was signed by Cindy McCain, WFP’s Executive Director and Inger Andersen, UNEP’s Executive Director.
“Food and water go hand in hand: we urgently need to restore our ecosystems and scale up climate adaptation programs to ensure future generations have the basic resources needed to grow enough food,” said McCain.
“WFP’s global footprint and operational scale, combined with UNEP’s world-class scientific expertise, will help governments, communities, and families on the frontlines of the climate crisis better protect themselves. Our partnership will reduce humanitarian needs and support long-term solutions to hunger.”
According to Andersen: “If we work more closely together, we can create real, meaningful impact. We can enhance climate mitigation and adaptation. We can support vulnerable populations to address nature-induced conflicts and natural disasters. We can maintain healthy, productive, and resilient ecosystems. We can deliver on both our mandates and reduce the vicious cycle of humanitarian and environmental crises.”
